GOLD COAST: Torrential rains unleashed by the remnants of Cyclone Alfred wreaked havoc on Australia’s east coast this Monday, March 10, forcing emergency crews to battle against significant flooding and restoring power to more than 200,000 homes and businesses.

Despite the weather system gradually weakening, authorities issued multiple flood and severe weather warnings over a sprawling 400km stretch that includes key areas in Queensland and New South Wales. The tropical depression dumped a staggering 30 centimeters of rain in just 24 hours on the bustling Queensland capital of Brisbane, sending floodwaters cascading through the streets and stranding cars in the worst-hit neighborhoods, as seen in harrowing images shared across Australian media.

Emergency services swung into action, rescuing 17 individuals from the treacherous, fast-moving waters in Queensland overnight, according to state premier David Crisafulli. “We’re advocating for everyone to stay informed and connected as more intense flooding is anticipated throughout the day,” he said at a press conference.

MASSIVE POWER OUTAGES

Reports indicated that utility companies were battling to restore power to more than 210,000 homes and businesses in Queensland alone, with an additional 10,000 facing outages in New South Wales. In a statement, Essential Energy confirmed ongoing repair efforts across the affected areas, remarking on the extensive vegetation work necessary to clear fallen trees from power lines, re-stabilize power poles, and replace essential electrical assets.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns informed the press that while most evacuation notices had been lifted, unpredictable weather patterns might still lead to increased rainfalls in the upcoming 24 hours.

Tragically, the wild weather has already claimed at least one life. A 61-year-old man was swept off a bridge in northern New South Wales as he attempted to navigate floodwaters in his four-wheel-drive vehicle. His desperate efforts to cling to a tree branch sadly ended in vain, with his body being located the following day.

In an unsettling twist, 13 soldiers sustained injuries during an operation to clear roads near the flood-ridden city of Lismore. Two army trucks rolled over in the chaos, sending the troops to the hospital. Fortunately, Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that all but one soldier has since been released, and the remaining individual is in stable condition—“not life-threatening,” he said, providing a small glimmer of relief amidst the turmoil.

As the situation unfolds, the risk of flash floods, major river flooding, and hazardous weather conditions continues. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and monitor local news reports for updates on the catastrophic events sweeping across eastern Australia.